One Day in Marbella: The Perfect Day Trip from Malaga (2026)

Marbella is one of the best day trips from Malaga. Super yachts line the marina at Puerto Banus, whitewashed alleys wind through the Old Town, and 27 kilometres of golden beaches stretch along the Costa del Sol.

But there's more here than glamour. Moorish castle walls, 16th-century churches, Dali sculptures, and genuine Andalusian charm make Marbella worth the 45-minute drive.

I still remember our first visit.

We stared, wide-eyed, at the yachts in Puerto Banus and the designer shops nearby. Then we found ourselves winding through flower-filled alleys in the Old Town, stumbling upon hidden plazas and centuries-old churches. The drive back to Malaga took us through the hills, gawking at the mansions stacked up the mountainside.

Marbella isn't just a playground for the rich.

It's layered with history, lined with great food, and full of surprises. Here's how to see the best of it in one day.

Our Perfect Day in Marbella

With so many options, choosing what to do can be overwhelming.

Here's how Heidi and I would spend a day in Marbella, from morning to night. This itinerary balances culture, beaches, and the famous Puerto Banus experience.

Marbella Old Town: What to See

The Casco Antiguo (Old Town) is the heart of Marbella and where you should spend most of your time. It's compact enough to explore in 1.5-2 hours, but you could easily spend half a day here if you enjoy wandering.

Plaza de los Naranjos

The main square dates back to the 15th century when the Catholic Monarchs reconquered Marbella from the Moors.

Today, fragrant orange trees shade cafe tables, and the Renaissance town hall and Casa del Corregidor frame the plaza. Grab a table at one of the terraces for people-watching and coffee.

Best time to visit: Early morning before the tour groups arrive, or late afternoon when the light is golden.

Murallas del Castillo

The remains of Marbella's 10th-century Moorish castle walls are tucked into the Old Town.

Most visitors miss them, but they're worth seeking out. The walls give context to Marbella's history as a fortified Arab settlement. Look for the entrance on Calle Trinidad.

Iglesia de la Encarnacion

This 17th-century Baroque church dominates the Old Town skyline.

The interior is ornate with gilded altarpieces and religious art. Free to enter, and a cool escape from the midday heat.

Ermita del Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz

A small 15th-century hermitage near the castle walls.

One of the oldest buildings in Marbella and easily missed. It's usually locked, but the exterior and the quiet corner it occupies are worth the detour.

Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engravings

Located in a 16th-century building in the Old Town, this museum showcases works by Picasso, Miro, Dali, and other Spanish masters. Free entry and worth 30-45 minutes if you appreciate graphic arts.

Shopping and Galleries

The Old Town has excellent artisan shops selling handmade ceramics, leather goods, and local crafts.

Prices are reasonable compared to Puerto Banus. Look for the small galleries tucked into side streets.

Puerto Banus: Worth the Hype?

Puerto Banus is Marbella's glamorous marina, about 6 km west of the Old Town.

Super yachts bob in the water while Ferraris cruise past Dior, Gucci, and Rolex boutiques. It's undeniably impressive, but also undeniably touristy.

My honest take: Puerto Banus is worth seeing once.

The marina is genuinely impressive, and the people-watching is entertaining. But the restaurants are overpriced, the crowds can be overwhelming in summer, and it lacks the authentic charm of the Old Town.

What to do there:

• Walk the marina and admire the yachts
• Window-shop at the designer boutiques (or actually shop if that's your thing)
• Stop for coffee at Rivareno Gelato or Sinatra Bar
• Take a boat tour for a different perspective of the coast

How long to spend: 1-2 hours is enough for most people. Don't feel pressured to have lunch here unless you want to splurge.

Marbella's Best Beaches

Marbella has 27 km of coastline with over 20 beaches. For a day trip, these are the most accessible:

Playa de la Venus / Playa de la Fontanilla - The main beaches closest to the Old Town.

Golden sand, good facilities, sunbed rental, and chiringuitos serving fried fish and beer. The promenade connects them, so you can stroll between them.

Playa de Nagueles - Near Puerto Banus, this is where the upmarket beach clubs (Ocean Club, Nikki Beach) are located. More glamorous crowd, higher prices.

Playa de Casablanca - Between the Old Town and Puerto Banus. Good middle ground with fewer crowds than the main beaches.

Playa Artola-Cabopino - The best natural beach, with protected sand dunes (Dunas de Artola) behind it.

Quieter, less developed, and about 12 km east of the Old Town. Worth the drive if you have time.

Beach Clubs

Marbella is famous for its beach clubs. The biggest names are:

• Ocean Club - The most famous, with infinity pools, day beds, and a party atmosphere
• Nikki Beach - International chain with a glamorous vibe
• Opium Beach Club - Younger crowd, music-focused

Expect to pay: €50-150 for a day bed, plus food and drinks. Reservations are essential in summer.

Where to Eat in Marbella

Breakfast

• Churreria Ramon - Traditional churros with thick chocolate. Cash only, no frills, delicious.
• Mia Cafe - Specialty coffee and pastries near Plaza de los Naranjos
• Celicioso - Gluten-free and health-focused, in Puente Romano

Lunch and Tapas

• Taberna La Nina del Pisto - Local favourite for traditional Andalusian dishes. Try the flamenquin.
• Casa Blanca - Mediterranean cuisine with outdoor seating
• Picasso - Italian-influenced, good for families

Dinner

• Tragabuches - Modern Andalusian cuisine by a Michelin-starred chef. Book ahead.
• El Cordobes - Traditional tapas, good value

Beach Restaurants

Any chiringuito along the promenade will serve decent fried fish (pescaito frito), sardines (espetos), and cold beer. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is relaxed.

Avenida del Mar and the Dali Sculptures

This palm-lined walkway connects the Old Town to the beach and features 10 bronze sculptures by Salvador Dali. The surrealist works stand along the promenade, creating an open-air gallery that's free to visit any time.

The walk takes about 15 minutes and passes through Alameda Park, a peaceful green space with tiled benches, fountains, and shade trees. It's a natural route from the Old Town to the beach.

Alameda Park

Nestled between the Old Town and the beach, Alameda Park is Marbella's oldest park.

The botanical garden has exotic trees from around the world, Andalusian-style tiled benches, and fountains. It's a peaceful spot to rest between sightseeing and offers welcome shade in summer.

The Golden Mile

The Golden Mile is a 5 km palm-lined promenade stretching west from Marbella towards Puerto Banus. It's flanked by luxury resorts (Marbella Club, Puente Romano), stylish restaurants, and beach clubs.

Walking the entire Golden Mile takes about an hour. It's best in early morning or evening when the light is beautiful and the heat is less intense.

Beyond the Basics

Bonsai Museum

In Arroyo de la Represa Park, this museum has one of Europe's largest bonsai collections.

Over 300 miniature trees in a quiet, meditative setting. A peaceful break from the beach and shopping.

Ralli Museum

A free contemporary art museum in the Nueva Andalucia area, featuring Latin American and European artists. Worth a visit if you have extra time and appreciate modern art.

Vega del Mar Basilica

Near San Pedro de Alcantara (about 10 km west), the ruins of a 4th-6th century Christian basilica offer a glimpse into Marbella's early history. A quiet, rewarding stop for history enthusiasts.

Day Trip to Ojen

The mountain village of Ojen is just 8 km inland from Marbella.

Whitewashed houses, mountain views, and a slower pace. A good escape if the coast feels too crowded.

Getting to Marbella from Malaga

By Car

The fastest route is the AP-7 toll motorway (approximately €6.50 toll).

Journey time is 45-50 minutes in good traffic. The free A-7 coast road takes longer (60-75 minutes) but is scenic.

Parking in Marbella:

• Old Town - Underground car park at Avenida del Mar (€2/hour)
• Puerto Banus - Underground car park at the marina (€3/hour)
• Street parking - Free in blue zones with time limits; paid in green zones

Summer weekends can be challenging for parking. Arrive early or use the underground car parks.

By Bus

Alsa buses run regularly from Malaga bus station (Estacion de Autobuses) to Marbella.

• Journey time: Approximately 1 hour
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
• Cost: Around €8-10 each way
• Tickets: Buy at the station or online at alsa.es

The bus drops you at Marbella bus station, about 10 minutes walk from the Old Town.

By Organised Tour

Several operators offer day trips from Malaga that include Marbella, Puerto Banus, and sometimes Mijas or Ronda.

Prices start around €40-60 per person. Good if you don't want to drive or navigate public transport.

Getting Around Marbella

The Old Town is entirely walkable. For Puerto Banus:

• Taxi - €10-15 from Old Town, 10 minutes
• Local bus - Route L1 connects the centre to Puerto Banus
• Uber/Cabify - Both operate in Marbella

Best Time to Visit Marbella

Spring (April-May): Warm weather (20-25°C), fewer crowds, everything open. The best time for a day trip.

Summer (June-August): Hot (30-35°C), very crowded, beach clubs in full swing.

Book restaurants and beach clubs ahead. Traffic can be heavy.

Autumn (September-October): Still warm, crowds thinning, lower prices. Excellent time to visit.

Winter (November-March): Mild (15-18°C), quiet, some beach clubs and restaurants closed. The Old Town is peaceful and pleasant for walking.

How Long to Spend in Marbella

One day is enough to see the highlights: the Old Town, one beach, and Puerto Banus (if you're interested). This guide is designed for a day trip.

Two days allows you to relax more. Spend a morning at a beach club, explore the Old Town without rushing, and perhaps visit Ojen or the Bonsai Museum.

Three or more days opens up the golf courses, yacht charters, spa experiences, and day trips to Ronda, Estepona, or even Gibraltar.

Yacht Charters

Why just look at the yachts when you can board one? Marbella offers charters ranging from affordable shared trips (€50-100 per person) to private luxury sails (€500+ for a half day).

Boat tours depart from Puerto Banus. Book ahead, especially in summer, as demand is high.

Golf in Marbella

Marbella has nearly 20 golf courses within easy reach. The standouts:

• Real Club Valderrama - Host of the 1997 Ryder Cup, one of Europe's finest courses
• Finca Cortesin - Consistently ranked among Europe's top 10
• Marbella Club Golf Resort - Designed by Dave Thomas, beautiful mountain setting
• Los Naranjos Golf Club - Good value, challenging layout

Green fees range from €70-300+ depending on the course and season. Book ahead, especially for the premium courses.

Marbella Promenade

The Paseo Maritimo stretches for kilometres along the coast, connecting the beaches to the Old Town and beyond. It's perfect for an evening stroll, with restaurants, bars, and sea views the entire way.

The promenade is popular with joggers and cyclists in the morning, and families and couples in the evening. The Marbella Lighthouse, a simple but iconic landmark, makes a good photo stop.

Day Trips from Marbella

If you're staying longer, these destinations are easily reached from Marbella:

• Estepona - 25 minutes west. Colourful murals, quiet beaches, authentic atmosphere.
• Ronda - 1 hour north. Dramatic gorge, historic bullring, mountain scenery.
• Mijas Pueblo - 20 minutes. Whitewashed mountain village with views over the coast.
• Gibraltar - 1 hour southwest. British territory with the famous Rock.
• Tangier, Morocco - Day trips by ferry from nearby ports.